Related Content

Scott Strange says fatherhood has given him a new lease of life as he prepares to defend his Volvo China Open crown.

The Australian, also a winner at The Celtic Manor Resort in 2008, became a dad in January with the birth of daughter Meghan.

And he admits that has shifted his focus away from golf so far in the 2010 season.

"My season has been quite slow. I've had a baby girl so I've had a lot of time off," said the 33 year old.

"My form is ok considering that. I'm looking forward to getting out there tomorrow and getting amongst it and maybe put a bit of history into this tournament and put my name on the trophy a second time.

"I've been at home playing Dad and changing nappies and getting smiles from Little Megs. It gives a new lease on life - it's refreshing. The household is very calm and happy place to be.

"It's tough to come away and play but I do want to be here this week. I'm still going to play golf but when I leave the course it will stay at the course. Before I would take it home but now I go back and play with Bert and Ernie or something so it has taken the brain out of golf."

There is yet to be a succesful title defence since the Volvo China Open was added to The European Tour International Schedule, but Strange insists it is time that record was broken.

"It is always nice to defend your title. Some players don't make an effort to come back and defend their titles but I pride myself on coming back.

"It's a shame it is not on the same golf course as I lose the knowledge of having won on that course but Open Championships go from course to course and this is a fantastic golf course and will provide a good challenge for players throughout the week."